Adenan’s
FIRST YEAR IN OFFICE
Saturday, February 28, 2015
THE BORNEO POST SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT
Grand vision for Sarawak
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem talks winnable candidates, more nature reserves, and creating an even fairer state Sibon By Peter reporters@theborneopost.com
Describing his one year in office as ‘very eventful’, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem has vowed to do more for Sarawak in the years to come. When asked about his grand vision for Sarawak he said, “You must have a great vision for Sarawak but at the same time it must be practical too on what can be achieved and what can’t.” On achieving his vision, he said his immediate acid test would be to win the upcoming State election which is due by June 2016. “Nothing is 100 per cent ready because circumstances might change, but if the election is called today I think we can say we are ready. Of course, the timing will be decided by us and not the Opposition. There are many other things I have planned for Sarawak,” Adenan told The Borneo Post in conjunction with his first anniversary as the chief minister today. Elaborating his vision further during a live interview with RTM over TV1 on Wednesday night, Adenan stressed that he was serious in tackling the rural-urban migration with the implementation of basic necessities such as roads, electricity and treated water supplies in the rural areas. He said through such rural transformation policy, he hoped to achieve a more ‘balanced’ income society (both in rural and urban areas) and at the same time to ensure that more people could achieve middle-class
status in Sarawak in the next five years. On the political front, he said the new 11 seats on top of the present 71 would enable him to accommodate winnable candidates for the Barisan Nasional (BN) in the coming State election. “I will give the BN symbol to winnable candidates, including the candidate from Tanjung Datu,” said Adenan. When pressed further on whether it would mean giving the BN tickets to both UPP and Teras, he quipped, “There are all possibilities due to the creation of 11 new seats.” Currently, the four BN component parties Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP) have been reluctant to discuss the thorny issue regarding claims by both United Peoples’ Party (UPP) and Parti Tenaga Rakyat Sarawak (Teras) on the seat allocation. In the last State election held in 2011, PBB was allocated 35 seats, SUPP (19 seats), PRS (9) and SPDP (8). However, the outcome was unfavourable for SUPP when it lost 13 of its seats.
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I have learned a few things from my predecessor. One being that... You are not the chief minister only to the Malays or the Chinese, Ibans, Bidayuhs or Orang Ulu. You are the chief minister to all including those in the opposition. Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem
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Adenan’s First Year In Office THE BORNEO POST SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT
Saturday, February 28, 2015
THE affection between the Chief Minister and his wife, Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Dato Jamilah Anu is hard to miss. Adenan’s face lights up and relaxes whenever Jamilah appears. Similarly, where they both attend the same function, Jamilah’s eyes are always on this man she has been married to for 35 years. The couple is observed to have different temperaments — Adenan being the reserved, quiet and task-oriented half while Jamilah the sociable, outspoken and peopleoriented one. Their differences complement each other, carrying them through thick and thin, sunny days as well as stormy waters. Being married to this stern man for over three decades, Jamilah knew from the very start that to be supportive did not mean she had to be by his side all the time. She knows when to give him the space he needs to mull through issues but she stays awake to tend to him when he is unwell. Even now, as the wife of the chief minister, she still cooks and serves him in the kitchen. It was thus not surprising that Adenan on more than one occasion had openly expressed his love for her and that she is ‘the best thing that has ever happened to him’. For Adenan, on his first anniversary as the Chief Minister of Sarawak, Jamilah tells Lian Cheng of The Borneo Post in an exclusive interview of their life together; their love for each other and her responsibilities as the wife of the state’s chief minister. Q: May we know how you and the chief minister first met? JA: We met at the Rela Office where I was working as a secretary. That is why he always mentions that he is ever so grateful to Rela because that was where he found me. Q: How would you describe him as a person? JA: Despite his serious demeanour, Datuk Patinggi is a caring and down-toearth person. As a leader, he is an attentive listener to his people. He takes his roles seriously because he understands the aspirations of the people and the challenges ahead. To his political and administrative team, he is frank and fair. He is a person who can wear many hats but ultimately I know him as a hard-working man who lives by his words. In his line of work, he draws inspiration from the literature and shows high regard for strong work ethics. This is why he believes in ‘whatever you do, do it well’. He may look stern but he is not a vengeful person. He does not have that malice in him. He believes that people can change and be better. For these qualities, he has my utmost respect and admiration. He is a man of great leadership qualities and yet when he comes home, his needs are simple. At heart, he is very much a village boy and never forgets his roots. I think he is happiest when he interacts with the village folk and community leaders. Q: How would you describe him as a husband and a father? JA: At home, he is a simple man with simple needs. He likes home-cooked, simple traditional Malay dishes. He is a man of few words. He is firm but always has a soft spot for the children and grandchildren. Sometimes, he has mood swings and is aloof. He is particularly serious when presenting papers in seminars or lectures. But he can also be charming and humorous when giving speeches. And he thinks a great deal. Even when he reaches homes,
Through thick and thin
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I hope he will serve the rakyat well. They have elected him and I would like him to be a chief minister for all the people of Sarawak to lead the state into progress economically and become a well-developed state. The people have many aspirations and I hope he can fulfill some of it, if not all.
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Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Dato Jamilah Anu
he never stops working and thinking. To take his mind off work, I will pass him a smart device to play his favourite Word Wrap game which he will enjoy as he hums his favourite tunes such as ‘I can’t help falling in love with you’, ‘Mona Lisa’ and ‘Blueberry Hill’. In his own way, he is a loving man who is romantic, trustworthy, considerate, kind-hearted, caring and dependable. Despite being serious-looking, deep down he is gentle and loving. He is a good listener and he makes me laugh. He seldom smiles and whenever he does, I will tell him that he looks handsome. And he likes it. He loves music and used to sing to express his love for me. How can I not be attracted to a man who croons to me? I feel very secure whenever I am with
him. Marrying him was the best decision I have ever made. He is my soul mate and my best friend. And as his wife, I make sure I know what he needs and what he likes. For him, I bother to go into the greatest details to take care of him because I tell myself, “You are so blessed to have such a man as your husband, what else do you want?” So like when he was sick, I didn’t sleep to make sure he was all right. Apart from being my life partner, he is also my life teacher. I learnt a lot while living with him as his wife. We understand each other and we communicate well. Most important of all, we trust each other. He trusts me completely and because of that, I am careful in everything I do to make sure that I don’t abuse his trust. Of course, we do make mistakes and we do fight. But that usually does not last long. I usually let it go and we patch up after half an hour. He already has a lot to deal with, I don’t want to add more problems to him. Q: What kind of chief minister do you envision him to be? JA: I hope he will serve the rakyat well. They have elected him and I would like him to be a chief minister for all the people of Sarawak to lead the state into progress economically and become a well-developed state. The
people have many aspirations and I hope he can fulfill some of it, if not all. As a voter in his area, I share his vision that he must be the chief minister for all - for all races even for the Opposition because they are also Sarawakian. I am the daughter of a Melanau policeman and a Bau girl. I grew up in Bau where we did not make distinction between races but see everyone as an individual and build a relationship or friendship based on that. That is why I can speak Hakka and Bidayuh. My parents’ generation is like that and my generation is also like that. And I believe Sarawakian parents also experienced that and they are also living out their experience where their children learn from them. This is what we are — Sarawakians do not make a distinction between races but see everyone as individuals. So I agree with his policy of barring extremists. And I also applaud him for his environmental conservation policy. Actually, environment is also his concern. In his maiden speech in 1978, he already talked about conserving forests, protecting rivers and taking care of the flora and fauna. Q: Behind every successful man is a woman. How have you been managing your time as the wife of the state’s Chief Executive?
JA: As his wife, I understand his job stress, responsibilities and commitment in serving the rakyat. I give him the space that he requires and respect his need to be alone. I take care of the running of the home to allow him to focus on state affairs. I try my very best to take care of his personal needs like making sure he rests and eats well. For family affairs or other nitty-gritty things, I can handle, I try not to bother him because he already has too much to handle. As wife of the chief minister, I support and work alongside him in his political career. I go to his constituency and visit the womenfolk in the area even though I am not even a PBB (Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu) member. I have also been working with the people in my husband’s constituency and have organised many activities such as cooking competition, religious talks and educational awareness programmes. Through these functions, I mingle and establish relationships with the grassroots where I listen to their problems and needs. Besides that, I am actively involved in social, charitable
and community work which ranges from educational to religious-based activities. His heart is very much for youth development and helping the less fortunate. As I too have the passion for his concern, I help in whatever ways I can for these groups of people. I will do everything for him. One thing however, that I will not do and that is to overstep my boundary. I will not interfere in his decisionmaking. With him being the chief minister, my responsibility of course is getting more challenging. However, juggling with time is a skill I have acquired over the years even before he became a chief minister. I have been very much involved with many organisations well before I became the CM’s wife. So whatever I am doing now is just an extension of what I have been doing. It’s nothing new. Even now, despite a tight schedule, I still cook my husband’s favourite food — Asam pedas ikan — and make time for my family and friends. Q: What about your very own concerns as now you are someone who can make a
difference in some areas? JA: My deepest concerns are for the needy and the disadvantaged as well as the wellbeing of women especially those in the rural areas. I came from a poor family from the rural area and I know what is like to be lacking. And now when I can do something to make a difference, I would. For me to be here now, I feel myself being so blessed and doing voluntary work is my way of saying thank-you to the Almighty. That is why I have always been involved in voluntary work for the disadvantage and the needy, even before my husband became the chief minister. It is also my hope that my involvement in voluntary organisations and NGOs will motivate and inspire others to live the spirit of volunteerism. I believe when I do voluntary work, I am investing in people’s lives and in some small way, I am contributing towards nation-building. Perhaps by him becoming the chief minister, it is now easier for him to raise funds. I can assure you that I will take that opportunity because there are truly a lot of needs around. Just NGOs alone, the needs are great. As president of the Association of Sarawak Ministers and Assistant Ministers Wives (Sabati), I can do much more now and we have been using our positions to raise millions of ringgit to implement its programmes and initiatives and spend on hospital equipment. My other long term NGO commitments are with the Board of Trustees of the Sarawak Heart Foundation which I am one of the founding members and the Muslim Welfare Organisation Malaysia (Perkim). Apart from giving timely and instant aid to the needy and the disadvantaged and to create awareness on cardiac health, I have also been involved in empowering women especially those in the rural areas to equip themselves with knowledge and skills. Yet, after many years of voluntary work, I discovered one truth — the one who gives is the one blessed. It is so fulfilling — to see the beaming smile of a child or tears flowing down the wrinkled face of an elderly whom time has etched out its furrows. Q: Can you share with us the secret of a happy marriage? JA: I see marriage as a garden which needs tending to, and care. From the perspective of a wife, I think the secret to a happy marriage requires first and foremost, the dedication to her husband and family. It involves tolerance, patience and constant expression of love through showing of care and affection. And there must be unwavering trust, between husband and wife. I think this is what we have in making our marriage work and we make sure we hand it down to our children and grandchildren. Of course, if I have to add to an additional ingredient of a happy marriage, it would be sharing the same interests and hobbies. Both of us like evergreen songs of the sixties. Last but certainly not least, a husband must be appreciative of the wife and vice-versa. Datuk Patinggi, being a gentleman, is always grateful to me for what I do for him and our family, be it small or big. And to me, his sincere appreciation of me is worth more than any Datukship or any state award. And I believe, deep down in him, that is how he evaluates me.
Adenan’s First Year In Office THE BORNEO POST SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT
Saturday, February 28, 2015
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Adenan outlines his approach for a better Sarawak CHIEF MINISTER Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem in a live TV interview on Wednesday night stated vividly that in order for Sarawak to succeed as a developed State, he would need people close to him who are honest and straight forward. And being the man who has experienced a political wilderness not too long ago, he did not mince his words on a wide range of topics which were discussed during the one-hour programme. Here are some highlights from the live interview on Feb 25 ‘Bersama Ketua Menteri Sarawak’ on TV1 marking his first year anniversary as Sarawak chief minister. ■
On according more recognition to private Chinese schools
He said the Federal government need to recognise Chinese school certificates and qualification since it is accepted and recognised in other countries. The Federal government should also provide financial aid to Chinese schools and the state government should increase the funds provided for Chinese schools. Last year the state government channeled RM3 million to Chinese schools in the state and Adenan pledged to increase the figure this year. ■
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CM at 9th Preschool Education Convention Oct 12 2014; Adenan agreed to provide more funding for next year’s 10th Preschool Education Convention
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You know it’s very difficult for me to say ‘no’ to Fatimah. She’s so charming, persistent and forceful and to escape her charm… When she approaches me, I know there is something she wants. So even before she asks me, I say ‘okay’… But she never asked anything for herself, always for the associations, her constituencies and so on. I will talk to the State Secretary (on Minister of Welfare, Women and Family Development Datuk Fatimah Abdullah’s request to upgrade the bureau to a full-fledged department.
On bridging the gap between urban and rural development
“I feel there is enough development in urban areas because there is enough facilities available in the cities but rural areas still lack such facilities. “That is why the focus is on developing infrastructure like roads, water supply and electricity in rural areas to provide an opportunity for economic development. “We must provide opportunities for rural folks to at least raise their lifestyle to the middle class income group but to realise that it can take time. However, such efforts have been implemented with success in a number of countries like Australia and New Zealand,” he said. ■
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This (pre-school education is critical) is because if you don’t do that, you’ll end up with robots and I believe we want our children to grow up well-rounded and not behave like robots. When we raise children, (don’t be overly protective) don’t say ‘no’ all the time but rather say ‘yes’ most of the time so as to encourage them to learn. Children are curious and they love to ask ‘why’... The old ways will not do anymore. We have to keep up with the times and if we don’t catch up, other countries will not wait for Sarawak.
On increasing intake of Sarawakian teachers to serve their home state
“Teachers from Sarawak must be posted to Sarawak because
CREDITS Editors Phyllis Wong Francis Chan Phil Fair Margaret Apau
Writers/ Contributors Peter Sibon Lian Cheng Churchill Edward Jonathan Chia Geryl Ogilvy Ruekeith Philip Kiew Yunus Yussop Eve Sonary Heng Jeremy Veno Lim How Pim Karen Bong Georgette Tan Marilyn Ten Joash Kong Wilfred Pilo Antonia Chiam James Ling Cindy Lai Jane Moh Peter Boon Danny Wong
Graphic Designers Hassan Abang Tofek Izzudin Ajibah Noriezam Drahman Leonard Michael
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CM during Women’s Day 2014 on Sept 27 at BCCK
Adenan speaking during the live interview on TV1.
they have better knowledge of Sarawak. Only if there are not enough teachers in Sarawak, should teachers from the mainland be posted,” he said adding that there was a need to set up more teachers training institutes in the state. ■
On native customary rights (NCR) land
While he advised natives to allow the Land and Survey Department to carry out perimeter survey on their land, he added: “If they feel their land is not enough, they can always request from the government. The government will look into it and it can be done under Section 5 and 6 of the Land Code.” ■
On Sarawak’s immigration policy
He said the existing immigration policy is one of Sarawak’s conditions for joining Malaysia and
that there were no plans to repeal it. “The Malays, Chinese, Ibans, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu in Sarawak live in harmony without argument about religion as what happened in Peninsular Malaysia. “We closed the door to extremists to prevent negative elements from Peninsular Malaysia from coming to Bumi Kenyalang.” ■
On Opposition
“We must remember that the opposition are also Malaysian citizens and they are also loyal to the country. Therefore, it is not wrong to give them an opportunity to speak or listen to their views. “We cannot continue to look at the opposition as our enemy and that is my policy. If the opposition wants to see me, they can come and see me anytime,” he said. ■
Finding consensus on ethnic identity in official forms
As for the call by the Dayak community in the state to replace the ‘others’ (lain-lain) in official forms to reflect the race of a certain ethnic group, to ‘Dayak’, the Chief Minister said he had already asked the Prime Minister to replace the ‘others’ to ‘Bumiputera Iban, Bumiputera Bidayuh and Bumiputera Orang Ulu”. However, he agreed with the request by Non Governmental Organisations (NGO) who want the ‘Others’ to be replaced with “Dayak”. A committee led by Minister of Plantations Industries and Commodities Dato Sri Douglas Uggah and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Joseph Entulu were looking into the matter. “This sensitive issue must be dealt with sensitively. But I have no objection. It is up to you (the Dayaks) what you want to be called.”
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If any state legislation discriminates against women… And if there is any federal legislation, tell me about it, and I will ask my MP friends to have it amended so there will be no discrimination against women in federal or state laws. The fight for women’s rights ‘is the fight for human rights and not just for women’. And I agree with Hillary Clinton (former US Secretary of State). How women are oppressed… treated as less value than a camel, as things or objects. You cannot occupy the position in any organisation simply because you are a woman. I don’t believe in this quota system. If you want to fill the quota, you must be qualified, not simply because you are a woman.
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At Women’s Day 2014 on Sept 27 in BCCK, with Adenan saying he had never seen so many women (over 1,000) in his life
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Children learn best through play. Our children are like treasures. They need to be polished, before they can shine bright. CM’s wife Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Dato Jamilah Anu, Patron of 3PAKS (Swak Early Childhood Education Association). April 18 2014
Less logging, more nature reserves
environment way back in 1979. That is nearly 40 years now. Now that I have the opportunity to protect the environment I will do so,” he stressed. In relation to that, Adenan said he would continue to focus on how to settle matters relating to land in the near future. To make Sarawak
■ From Page 1 SPDP was also not spared the embarrassment when it lost two seats, while PRS lost one. However, PBB, which is the backbone of the State BN, won all its seats with resounding victories. On a related issue, Adenan who is also the State BN chairman said there was no possibility for DAP to join the State BN. “And I don’t have the authority to appoint people from outside the BN, to be appointed as members of the State Cabinet. In the federal they can do that because they can appoint people as senators first. In Sarawak there is such law,” he stressed. On the performance of his Cabinet, Adenan reiterated that he was happy with them. “They have done quite well, I have answered the question in the Dewan,” he stressed. Throughout the last year, Adenan has shown his mettle in dealing with tricky issues especially in addressing illegal logging. “I don’t care whether I receive any compliment or not, what I care about is the result. If they choose to compliment me it’s their business but if they don’t, never
Adenan, accompanied by his wife Puan Sri Dato Jamilah Anu, planting and watering a sapling.
mind,” he stressed. Adenan, who is also Minister of Planning and Environment, disclosed that he would be gazetting more national parks and at the same time will continue to reduce the number of timber licences. “There will be more reduction on non-renewal timber licences. The reasons are to reduce smuggling and to protect our forest and to increase the number of national parks. I think during my time, we have increased it by at least 20. And now there are more to come as they are now on the process of
being converted to national parks,” he pointed out. He was not in favour of setting up zoos, preferring the setting of more nature reserves. “There is no intention of setting up a zoo in Sarawak but our focus would be to create more nature reserves. People might forget that I was the first State assemblyman who spoke on the
an even fairer State to invest in, the chief minister also planned to further reduce the commercial electricity tariff for local companies after reducing the electricity tariff across the board for all consumers in the State in early 2015. “About this electricity rate, if we are giving special rates to the foreign companies why not the local people, right?” he said. And after a year, he was also happy that his family, especially his wife Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Dato Jamilah Anu has been very supportive of him in leading the State to greater heights. “I think my family has been quite well despite my busy schedule,” he added.
Signing a commemorative plaque during Yayasan Sarawak’s anniversary last year.
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THE BORNEO POST SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT
Adenan’s First Year In Office
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Adenan’s First Year In Office THE BORNEO POST SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT
Turning point for Chinese community “I think he is a man of deeds, not just words; he means what he says and he says what he means. He not only made civil servants pledged their integrity, he also asked members of his cabinet to do so,” said Minister of Local Government and Community Development and Second Finance Minister Dato’ Sri Wong Soon Koh. “He is a CM not just for one race but all races, including the Chinese community.” He recalled how Adenan had set a precedent for the Sarawak government’s relationship with Chinese Secondary Independent schools when, after one or two dialogue sessions with the Chinese Secondary Independent schools board of management, Adenan decided to give a RM3million grant. According to Wong, Adenan had said he would make it an annual grant that would increase incrementally. “That was a very pleasant surprise to the Chinese community because never in the history of the Sarawak government, had such a grant been given.” Wong described Adenan as a man who went for high efficiency and good governance. “In fact, we particularly, the Chinese community should take stock of what has happened lately; the turn of events that has been brought about by the good administration of the current CM and rethink what sort of political stand they should adopt.”
Inclusive administration THE minorities in Sarawak felt included and have a place in the Barisan Nasional government helmed by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Adenan Satem. “We are grateful for his inclusiveness in accommodating the needs of Kedayans and other ethnic minority groups,“ said Assistant Minister of Family Development and Childhood Education Rosey Yunus. Rosey, Bekenu state assemblyman and a Kedayan from Kampung Pejuang in Sibuti, said elected representatives jobs were made easier with the understanding leadership of Adenan who has traveled the breadth of the state and knows intimately the needs of the countryside as well in urban centres. The Kedayan community is fully behind the firm Chief Minister who readily lends an ear to every ethnic group in the state and fights for the interests of every Sarawakians. “We salute his means-whathe-says leadership and putting interests of Sarawakians and Sarawak above himself,” she said.
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Adenan (centre) with PBB leaders including (from right) Datuk Seri Douglas Uggah, Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Abang Openg, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu and Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan launching the party’s website. — Photo by Jeffery Mostapa
In their own words Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Adenan Satem has done well in his first year in the hot seat: he slammed the door shut on religious bigots, opened the local oil and gas industry to wider local participation and pulled the plug on illegal logging and cyber gambling, all the while pushing for integrity and good governance. To celebrate the Chief Minister’s first year in office, The Borneo Post asked ministers, personalities and members of the public what impressed them most about his administration. “He has done very well, and the most significant is his uncompromising stand against religious bigotry and extremism to keep intact the very fabric of Sarawak’s society,” said Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Second Minister of Resource Planning and Environment, Minister of Industrial Development and Minister of Public Utilities. Adenan in the driver’s seat
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He has done very well, and the most significant is his uncompromising stand against religious bigotry and extremism to keep intact the very fabric of Sarawak’s society.
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Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Second Minister of Resource Planning and Environment, Minister of Industrial Development and Minister of Public Utilities
is a breath of fresh air in tune with Sarawakian’s aspirations, and Awang Tengah said the chief minister remains the same man since his days in the state and federal cabinet. “What you are seeing is the man whom we have known all along- speaking his mind, bold, intelligent, humourous, kindhearted and a veteran politician who genuinely has the interest of the people and the state at heart.” The chief minister tackles issues close to the hearts of the people head-on, and this bold, delivery-oriented leadership has drawn support and admiration
throughout the state. Sarawak will remain businessfriendly under Adenan’s watch and this message resounded loudly in his trade mission speech South Korea while addressing a group of potential investors from international conglomerates. Maintaining the good ratings and the good relationship with the federal government and its present ministers augurs well for the state. “Adenan has all the ingredients to bring Sarawak forward, continuing what is good and making it better,” Awang Tengah said.
The Chief Minister has introduced a few key policies during this past one year. One of the most important is his policy on integrity, where he wants the leaders in the government and public service to have a high level of integrity. It is the first in Malaysia that cabinet ministers pledged in front of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Agency (MACC). This is something we are proud of because integrity is very important in the administration of both the state and country. Secondly, our Chief Minister has focused on fighting illegal logging and this would send a signal to the international community that we are serious in tackling this. Illegal logging has smeared the name of this state on the global stage. With this approach led by the Chief Minister, all of us in the state government will go all out to fight illegal logging. He was surprised to find out that illegal logging has been rampant throughout the state and it is because of this that we are taking strict measures. The government has also triggered its immigration power to ban extremists and religious bigots from entering the state and stop these individuals from playing up racial, religious issues and spreading them here. In addition, the reduction of tariff is giving lots of assistance to people in coping with rising cost of living. He has announced that he is quite liberal in granting communal reserve land and creating new settlement schemes. Native customary rights (NCR) issue is something very close to the hearts of the natives. Petronas is giving over RM2 billion worth of contracts to local companies which is a positive sign in view to the state’s request to increase its oil and gas royalty from five per cent to 20 per cent. The tourism numbers which hit 4.8 million last year and healthy economic figure in terms of investment, shows the confidence in the CM’s policies.”
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Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg Housing and Tourism Minister
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Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem, a straight talking and a no-nonsense politician is making his mark in his first year as the Chief Minister of Sarawak. He told Sarawakians what he wanted to do in no uncertain terms. You don’t second guess what he wants and where he wants us to go. He calls a spade a spade; where crooks cringe and the honest rejoice! Sarawak being the biggest state in Malaysia and with vast economic potentials needs a chief executive who rules with a steel hand in velvet gloves! He needs the help of everybody, including the Opposition, in propelling this state into the 21st century. Criticise him if we must; judge him if we want, if they are for the good of Sarawak. I am sure he accepts honest critics as he despises treachery in his administration. His intelligence will differentiate between the two. I don’t doubt it! Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) will give him full support in administrating this state in his honest, transparent and dedicated manner. May God give him the strength to pursue his vision for Sarawak.
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Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Jemut Masing, Minister of Land Development
Being an old hand in a new job and pressed against time, still Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem has achieved brilliantly. We are more than assured that he would continue with his approach of being very thorough, tenacious, equitable and fair. Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom, Minister of Social Development
We, the women of Sarawak, share good feelings with YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem at the helm. We feel we can continue to enjoy peace, safety, hope for a better future for our family and future generation. YAB Tan Sri, like his predecessor, recognises and gives full support for women’s progress and development. He also recognizes women’s contribution to nation-building. Manifestation of the support and recognition is the recent establishment of our three training centres for capacity-building at our Wisma Wanita and also the upgrading of our women’s bureau to a full-fledged department named Sarawak Women’s and Family Department.
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Datuk Fatimah Abdullah, Minister of Women, Welfare and Family Development
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Adenan being welcomed at Women’s Day 2014 held at BCCK.
Manyin: Adenan’s wit shone from days of St Joseph school magazine DATUK Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem is known for giving witty speeches but he is also known for writing with wit and intellect even during his schooldays. One of those who still recall the good English essays written by Adenan is Infrastructure Development and Communications Minister Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong. According to Manyin, he came to know who Adenan was through his articles in the St Joseph’s School magazine ‘Ad Astra’ in the early 1960s. At that time, Adenan was his senior and a regular writer in the school magazine. “I was his junior at the school. I started to know who he was through the Ad Astra because he was one of those who always contributed articles to our school magazine. “Together with another Josephian, Chang Khen-Lee (now a Queen’s Counsel in Hong Kong),
Saturday, February 28, 2015
they displayed a very powerful command of English in their articles, and we admired to these articles because we could learn something while reading them,” said Manyin, who is also Tebedu assemblyman. Even years after leaving school, they still remained in contact and Adenan, who by then was already a state cabinet minister, officiated at functions in SMK Tebakang upon invitation by Manyin who was then the school principal in the early 1980s. Manyin also recalled that when he was invited to join active politics in 1996, Adenan was also among the senior politicians who welcomed him onboard and gave encouragement. Adenan also displayed another style not normally associated with Malaysians in that he kept
his salutations short when giving speeches and chairing meetings, added Manyin. “Sometimes it takes five minutes to 10 minutes for salutations, but this man starts his speeches with ‘ladies and gentleman…’ only, or acknowledge the presence of TYT (Head of State) and then ‘ladies and gentlemen’. “During meetings, he would say ‘Good morning ladies and gentlemen let us start’. So, that is his style,” said Manyin. On the most memorable moment with the chief minister in his one year in office, Manyin said it happened at the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) headquarters on Oct 11 last year when Adenan responded positively to his open request for Serian to be elevated as a division. Manyin said it was Adenan’s first
function at DBNA since taking over as Chief Minister and his response was received as good news by the Bidayuh community. “I openly asked him, requesting him ‘can we have Serian as a division’, which will make it the first Bidayuh-majority division. And the answer he gave was ‘Yes, I will look into it positively.’ “All these years (while he was still a minister) whenever the Bidayuh community asks for funds, he never rejected. Just like his predecessor, the CM has a soft spot for the Bidayuhs. That is good (for us), we (the Bidayuhs) are all out to support his leadership. “I, being a Bidayuh minister, will definitely go all out to get the Bidayuhs to support him,” said Manyin. “With this, I believe that (in) the next state election, his leadership will be well received not only by the people in the rural areas, but also those in the urban areas,” said Manyin.
The Chief Minister has exceeded expectations of all Sarawakians within his first year in office. He gets a high distinction in delivering services and promises to the people. He has definitely done an outstanding job as people throughout Sarawak are talking good about him even in my constituency of Belaga. One of the most notable moments was the longstanding logging problem in Bakun but with his intervention immediately after this issue was raised, he instructed the Public Works Department (JKR) to install a metal barricade to prevent illegal logging trucks from terrorising the roads. Another complex situation was the public outcry over ridiculous charges to cross the Metalun Bridge (Murum Bridge) where people were charged RM300 for a return trip by the timber concessionaire operating in the area. I called him to seek advice on the issue and a few hours later, the problem was solved. I cannot be more grateful. Adenan’s great quality as a leader is undeniable, through his interpersonal approach. There was this time when I was inexperienced and caused an outburst in the paper. He just called me and calmly advised me and provided guidance on my mistake. Overall, he deserves an A++.
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Liwan Lagang, Assistant Culture and Heritage Minister
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I think Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem is very humorous. I like to listen to him. He talks humorously, wisely and decisively. When he makes a decision, he delivers. I have met both of your chief ministers - present and former. Both attached great importance to the relations of China and Sarawak. From my conversations with them, I got the impression that they closely follow the development of China. And they appreciate the achievement of China especially the pragmatic ways of the Chinese, being not only pragmatic but hard working. They have already sent their ministers to China to share experiences. I think with their wise leadership, the relationship between China and Sarawak will be further strengthened.
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Liu Quan, Consul-General of People’s Republic of China in Kuching
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Adenan’s First Year In Office THE BORNEO POST SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Above political divides him the legal authorities and “WE are glad the Chief he said he would read Minister is in agreement with them to update himself on us on many issues such as the the law. vigilance against extremists The state government has and their extremist views; refused to acknowledge the rejection of hudud law; decisions of the courts that support for the usage of NCR also includes the ‘pemakai ‘Kalimah Allah’ — where he menoa’ and ‘pulau openly rebuked galau’, besides the those in West ‘temuda’. Malaysia who Elsewhere, drug called for and abuse and illegal supported the gambling need ban; maintaining more focus if he multi-racial is serious about and religious eradicating them. harmony in We would like Sarawak. him to fight for Besides that, more allocation we are also glad from the federal at his willingness government to to tackle improve our rampant illegal infrastructure, logging; taking Baru Bian and provide the Integrity better medical Pledge and care and education for getting his ministers and Sarawakians. senior civil servants to do To remind them of Tunku the same as well as fighting Abdul Rahman’s words for 20 per cent petroleum ‘that one of the principal royalty. objectives was to further the Of course, the glaring issue economic development of for us is his silence so far the Borneo Territories so that on the definition of native their standards of living and customary rights (NCR). technical skills might be raised, At our meeting with him in and a firm basis provided for last December (2014), I gave He is very close to us, willing to listen and look into matters raised up by people, directly or indirectly. According to a reliable source, when someone is making a requisition or complaint, he will immediately call the related parties to verify the issues, then direct the authorities to take immediate action. He is a real Sarawak CM. I can say that most if not all of Sarawakians know him well but mere mentyion of his name gets a real thumbs-up. Cheers for a good CM. Kok Peng Toh
Ever since our new chief minister has led the state, I began to have faith in a fair government. He has been fair to all races and religions without hesitation, as when he had no issues with the word ‘Allah’ used by Christians here, stopped extremists from entering, cancelling a religious talk which may offend Christians here, when he gave RM3 million to Chinese education, when he fights all corruption, and too many to list out. He is also humble and people-friendly. He can even dine in coffee shops like us citizens. He is truly Sarawakian and has the Malaysian spirit. I hope Adenan will continue to lead us because I believe our future lies in a good and fair leader like him. I was very touched when he did not want the Social Workers Act 2012 to be extended here to keep volunteerism alive among Sarawakians, big or small. Elizabeth Octovia Andrew
The CM is currently doing a great job! He has taken a strong stand against illegal logging to safeguard our state’s natural resources and the environment. Another notable achievement was the signing of the Integrity Pledge along with his cabinet ministers. Overall I feel he has what it takes to unite Sarawakians from all walks of life regardless of religious and racial background and even both sides of the political divide, to protect our rights in the Federation of Malaysia. Tek Ong
He looks confident on every decision he makes. Firm and so far he has done a very good job. His war and commitment against illegal logging, and most importantly, he fights for the rights of Sarawakians. I hope he can give more emphasis to help the people with low income due to the high cost of living. Mohamad Fakrul Akmal
I find our chief minister as a down-to-earth politician and leader. He mixes around freely with the people without too much protocol. He sets leadership by example and this is something which our aspiring politicians can follow. I recall during my active years as an office-bearer in DBNA (Dayak Bidayuh National Association), he (Adenan) showed a special liking for the Bidayuh even when he was still a cabinet minister by generously approving what DBNA requested for. And now as chief minister, he had stated in his speech that he is a friend of the Bidayuhs, and this showed that he is indeed a chief minister for all races. Alexander Ganyang
He is a ‘perfect person’, and qualified to be the head of all ministers in the state. Based on what the newspapers say, Adenan is a humble and caring leader, and considerate on many problems arising in Sarawak, such as the ‘Bible’ and ‘Dan lain-lain’ issues. This is what I meant by ‘perfect leader’. I am sure Adenan will bring Sarawak to greater heights, in peace, unity and prosperity. I have not read negative remarks about him, nor heard of condemnation against him. We hope for the best for him and for the state. Francis Losobom Lourencius
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We are glad the chief minister is in agreement with us on many issues such as the vigilance against extremists and their extremist views; rejection of hudud law; support for the usage of ‘Kalimah Allah’ — where he openly rebuked those in West Malaysia who called for and supported the ban; maintaining multi-racial and religious harmony in Sarawak.
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Baru Bian, Ba Kelalan assemblyman and state PKR chairman
accelerated economic growth, … so that the gap between a relatively backward state and the advanced would be narrowed and not widened.’ “ He has shown a willingness to meet with the opposition and listen to our concerns about issues that affect the people. His predecessor was completely different in this aspect.”
Adenan listens to Opposition “From his works in the past branch of government, he one year, the Chief Minister has has also shown his political quite persuaded me that he is determination for good keen to carve his name on the governance and administration hearts of Sarawakians. through better control and Most exceptionally, he has enforcement. been open to ideas from the For the years ahead, he Opposition bench. We can be would have realised that he hopeful of turning a new leaf needs to make policy changes for the Sarawak Legislative and set new directions for his Assembly to ensure administration that all the elected which will not representatives be seen to will work together be enriching and perform a themselves but to more dynamic and benefit the future functional role in generations of the governing of Sarawak. our state. With the state’s While the rich resources, Selangor state there is no reason government had why Sarawak appointed the should lag behind Opposition leader our neighbouring as chairman of the countries in See Chee How Public Accounts economic Committee and prosperity and instituted the State infrastructural Competency Accountability development while the people and Transparency Committee bear inferior standards of living. (SELCAT), we should do the The Chief Minister should same and go a step better therefore look into institutional to set up State Ministerial changes to strengthen and and Departmental Select improve good governance Committees to mobilise all during the term of his elected representatives to administration, while also deliver the best services to the addressing the need to people. safeguard our resources and As head of the executive ensure fair distribution of the
Our new chief minister is a leader with a heart. His energy is vibrating towards joy, freedom, love, unity, togetherness and oneness. He is concerned with the well-being of the environment and the people. He is working towards restoring balance and healing. I believe Adenan is working to suppress the evil, the negative human traits which are greed, selfishness, corruption. I don’t have a flicker of doubt. I see a light in him. The cave could have been in darkness for many years but as soon as a match is struck… the light is here now. Cyril Lim
It has been a year since he first took his oath as our fifth chief minister and I feel it is never easy to live in the shadow of your predecessor who served for over three decades. People will use his predecessor as a benchmark. But Adenan has indeed made a strong comeback to state and national politics after a short hiatus. I am fairly satisfied with his performance in leading the state and addressing several pressing issues and challenges, highlighting the sentiments of Sarawakians in the national agenda. Without dismantling much of his predecessor’s previous economic development plan, Adenan has constructed a stronger economic and political development plan for the state. A leader need not say much in the media, and Adenan has proven a good track record as a listener and a doer. He is definitely not an ‘empty vessel makes the loudest noise’ but a humble leader with the people of Sarawak at heart. I certainly hope he will be active on social media to reach out to the younger voters as the state election is looming. Nevertheless, I do not expect Adenan to be on Twitter or Facebook 24/7, but regular updates and his thoughts will push his popularity among the younger voters. As for the future socio-political scene, I do hope he will groom younger leaders. The aging leaders do not reflect vibrant teamwork in policymaking and management. Younger leaders will bring in new, creative ideas to shape our future. Adenan is truly a stage personality and he owns it - literally cracking jokes from out of nowhere, side-tracking from the official protocol of his drafted speech, choosing to speak in Bahasa Sarawak and English during official functions; Adenan has nailed it all the time to get his message through. Norman Goh
So far so good. He is saying all the right things, and he seems friendlier and approachable. I’d like to see some action on the things he said, especially in environmental protection. Because Sarawak’s natural environment is going down the drain from no-action. I also find it interesting that he wants to work with NGOs to protect the environment; and he kept the radical religious nut cases out of Sarawak. Cynthia Chin
I feel gratified with the chief minister’s steadfastness in safeguarding the autonomy, rights and security of Sarawak. His strong defence of the rights of Sarawak under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 should keep the racially divisive politics out of Sarawak. He also led the state to make a formal request to the federal government to increase the oil and gas royalty payable to Sarawak from five per cent to 20 per cent. It was also encouraging to see the educational grant made to the Chinese independent schools in the state at a time when some leaders in the Peninsula were saying they should be closed. It was certainly a big boost to the Chinese community. It is also desirous that all races have a fairer share of the state resources. To achieve this, the people of Sarawak should rally behind the chief minister for his meritorious efforts to build Sarawak as good as, if not better than, the Peninsula. I haven’t had an opportunity of close interaction with the chief minister. Just that (at some functions) he doesn’t smile when he tells jokes, and he only smiles after the audience responds to his joke with laughter. Bong Lian Huan
(CM) Adenan is a person who can bring more prosperity and peace to the local people. Keep up with your good work to fight against corruption and religious freedom in the state. I am confident the state government will continue to be business-friendly to lure more investors to here. I hope Adenan will uplift Sarawakians’ basic income level by creating more entrepreneurs through training and business development programmes. Simon Wong
I think the perception from everybody is that Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem has done a good job since taking helm as the chief minister. He has impressed the people whereby he took on a lot of outstanding issues or unresolved which were brought up by the opposition. He has also shown he means business and proved that he can ‘talk the talk and walk the talk’ as well. What he has done thus far is good for the future of Sarawak and we really look forward to the administration of Adenan as defined by him. Dato Steve Ng
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From his works in the past one year, the chief minister has quite persuaded me that he is keen to carve his name on the hearts of Sarawakians.
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See Chee How, Batu Lintang assemblyman and PKR Sarawak vice chairman
wealth generated from the development and management of these resources. Further, the chief minister will need to address the public reservation and skepticism that his endeavors for good governance is his own personal crusade. All his cabinet members and key officials in his government must follow his lead to declare that they themselves and their immediate family members and close aides will not be involved in land deals or mega public projects. I wish him good health and hope that he will be a true reformist, a Chief Minister that the state needs to transform Sarawak to become the best state in the country.”
From a Chinese point of view, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem is doing his best to woo the Chinese community since he took over as chief minister from Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud in March last year. He has looked out for the Chinese including allocating funds for Chinese schools here, as well as taking his time to listen and offer to assist the Chinese community leaders who paid him a courtesy call. From here, we can see the results and that he is now getting very popular with Chinese voters. If he continues like this, the Chinese voters will come back, support and vote for Barisan Nasional (BN) in the next state election. Lim Lian Kee
In his one year in office, the chief minister has taken a bold step in state policy on timber licences. The policy came as a bit of a surprise as Sarawak is known for its timber industry. However, revoking some timber licences is good as it will eliminate the bad hats and clean up the industry which is fantastic. Ending illegal logging will lead to a better image for the state. But revoking or not renewing timber licence could be a two-way street. Timber tycoons are powerful people and I hope if they are affected by the new policies, there will be no repercussions. On the contrary, it would also be sad if new timber licence is issued to companies with a personal interest. Lim Heng Kiang
He has made a huge impact on the ordinary people through his leadership. His stand on integrity is a salute to his capability and ability and a challenge to every level of society. His direct approach is exemplary and his solution to problem is ‘Get it done on time’. Kuching City will be one of the most liveable cities in the world and Sarawak will be the most prosperous and safe state in Malaysia under his able leadership of strong governance. I am blessed to be in his team. MBKS Mayor Dato James Chan
Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem has continued the spirit of our past chief minister, in which the spirit of 1Malaysia is strongly maintained. He really takes serious care on racism and works to ensure Sarawak remains peaceful and harmonious. He is also a friendly and approachable chief minister, and many people have labelled him as ‘mesra rakyat’. As a musician, I hope that under his governance, there will be more support given to the local music scene, such as sponsoring local acts to the international arena to better market Sarawak’s music scenes and cultures. Gabriel Fairuz Louis
We are very blessed to have Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem as Chief Minister of Sarawak who is a people’s chief minister. He has the heart for the ordinary people of Sarawak. A man of few words but sincerity in action. He needs to be supported so that he can do more for Sarawak and our fellow Sarawakians. Sen. Prof Datuk Dr Sim - SUPP president
From the youths’ standpoint, I see that the chief minister with the trait of being a high quality leader. His firm leadership style in managing the administration of the state has shown his passion for unity. His wit has also endeared him to the youths and to sum him up ‘he is a man of high integrity, trustworthy, honest, sincere, assertive, resourceful, modest and humble. Surai Anthony Abell
Adenan is a man dedicated to his fellow Sarawakians. He strikes me as a man of justice, by upholding and enforcing the law against illegal logging in order to preserve the natural ecology of the state’s environment. He also encourages harmony among all the ethnic groups, during a time when racial and religious tensions are abundant in Peninsular Malaysia. He has deep concerns for the local youths as he encourages them to be proactive in education, while he makes sure that the working young adults will be able to progress and prosper in their careers. Our chief minister is a man of extreme humility and kindness. Sylvia Tremas
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Adenan’s First Year In Office
THE BORNEO POST SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT
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Adenan’s First Year In Office
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THE BORNEO POST SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT
Saturday, February 28, 2015
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A Chief Minister for All ONLY two people were in the dispute, when the developer of a commercial project built a retaining wall which resulted in narrowing a lane at Laman Bong Chin making it very difficult for two house owners at the end of the lane to manoeuvre their cars. Yet, within days of the case, which would have been dismissed as small, the Land and Survey Department was told to get cracking. The case was solved amicably when the developer agreed to pull down the retaining wall enabling the two house owners to reverse their cars in peace. Land and Survey Director Datu Sajeli Kipli later revealed that it was Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem who directed him to quickly solve the impasse. And this is how Adenan operates — listening to the people and solving their problems as soon as possible. What impresses Sarawakians is not only the fact that he heeds the needs of common folk, but the drastic state reforms he has introduced since taking helm on Feb 28, 2014. Since his appointment as chief minister one year ago, he has taken the state by storm with his reforms.
Chief Minister For All At the very first press conference on the day he was sworn-in as chief minister, he promised to be a ‘Chief Minister for All’. The statement was at first not taken seriously. ‘To be a leader for all’ is after all a slogan many leaders have made, but an ideal rarely lived up to. To the curious public, his many years of silence and reticence made the statement sound even less promising. The Borneo Post, however, gave a glimpse of what the state’s new chief executive might be like when he granted an exclusive interview to the print
Development Corporation, Harwood Timber Sdn Bhd, Yayasan Sarawak, and Land Custody and Development Authority. The corporations that volunteered to sign the pledge were WTK holding Bhd, KTS Holdings Bhd, RH Forest Corporation Sdn Bhd, Ta Ann Group, Samling Group, and Shin Yang Group. Nine contractors that followed suit were Harwood Sdn Bhd, Syarikat Samling Timber Bhd, Jaya Tiasa Forest Plantation Sdn Bhd, Rupawan Istimewa Sdn Bhd, Teleng Trading Sdn Bhd, Everise Teamwork Sdn Bhd, Supreme Timber Products Sdn Bhd, Dataran Hijau Sdn Bhd, and Globalprima Sdn Bhd. He called on these corporations to monitor their subcontractors, camp managers, suppliers and workers closely as he did not want to see any of them failing to adhere to the pledge. Besides timber
media which was published on March 1, 2014. In that interview, he projected himself to be an extrovert who read widely and a leader who preferred to speak less but ready to listen to all. Within one year in office, he has proven to be the ‘Chief Minister for All’. This former magistrate stunned Sarawakians by bringing in a slew of crucial reforms. His strong stance on upholding the state’s autonomy, his liberal policies on religion and Chinese education, his sense of fairness and equality, the unwavering courage in fighting against corruption as well as empathy for the poor and needy won him unfathomable respect and wide applause from all communities in Fairland Sarawak.
No racists, extremists or bigots On March 21 2014, Adenan issued a statement, on his stance in upholding the state’s autonomy by barring the entry of religious bigots, extremists and racists. As it was a week away from the Balingian by-election polling day, it was read as a political move to prevent the entry of top opposition leaders. Later on, however, Adenan showed his consistent stance against extremists when controversial figures like Perkasa chief Ibrahim Ali and scholar Ridhuan Tee were turned away. It was only then that Sarawakians sat up and realised that this unassuming man who walks with a straight back and stern face meant business.
Religious freedom In his winding-up speech in 2014 May State Assembly sitting, Adenan said unequivocally in the august House that “hudud law will not be implemented in Sarawak and that no Bibles will be confiscated in
Home Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Rela director-general Lukeman Saaid pin the three-star rank on Adenan on Feb 8 this year. The Chief Minister, who is Rela Sarawak advisor, urged Rela members to help state enforcement authorities eradicate illegal logging.
Sarawak”. He assured that the state government would continue to safeguard the constitutional rights of Sarawak and the provisions in the Federal Constitution to protect the special interests of the state. “Rest assured that any proposal to alter or remove any of these constitutional safeguards would be brought by the state government to the attention of this House for deliberation and its endorsement would be sought.” He gave his personal assurance to the Dayak community at the 2014 Gawai open house in Betong last June where he reiterated his religious freedom policy which he described
as the foundation for the preservation of religious and racial harmony in the state. This Tanjung Datu assemblyman stated in simple and direct terms that extremism and bigotry would not thrive in Sarawak because so long as he is in office, he will not allow these elements to infiltrate our community. In a closed door meeting with the Chinese community on June 26, 2014, Adenan used a simple but vivid illustration to explain why hudud law would not see the light of day in Sarawak. “I am a Muslim, I would like to see hudud being imposed. But I also realised that it is not practical. For instance, a Chinese and a Malay Muslim are found
guilty of theft, the Chinese will be jailed for six months, and will go out of jail with two hands. A Muslim will have his hand cut off and after that for the rest of his life, he will live with only one hand. Which one do you want, six months or no hand? So it is not suitable for our circumstances.” He also duly assured the Chinese Christians that in Sarawak, there has always been freedom to use ‘Allah’ and 20 other words in their Bibles and worship. He made it clear that the socio-political climate in Peninsular Malaysia would not happen here, predicting that Peninsular Malaysia was heading to racial polarisation if nothing was done to rectify the situation.
An end to exorbitant fare for bridge-crossing WHEN public outcry arose over ridiculous charges to cross the Metalun Bridge (Murum Bridge) where ordinary folk were charged a sky-high RM300 for a return trip by the timber concessionaire operating in the area, Liwan Lagang, Assistant Culture
and Heritage Minister, was stumped… how to deal with this? “I called him (Adenan) to seek advice on the issue and just a few hours later, the problem was solved!” said the Belaga
assemblyman. “I cannot be more grateful. His sense of urgency is astounding. Adenan’s great quality as a leader is undeniable, through his interpersonal approach,” said Liwan. “He has definitely done an outstanding job as people throughout Sarawak are talking well of him even in my constituency of
Belaga. “The other notable moments was the longstanding logging problem in Bakun but with his intervention immediately after this issue was raised, he instructed the JKR to install a metal barricade to prevent illegal logging trucks from ‘terrorising the roads.”
Towards 20 per cent royalty Another milestone project Adenan had undertaken, which won him another big round of public approval is his perseverance to negotiate with the federal government to increase oil and gas royalty from five to 20 per cent. Describing petroleum royalty as “an issue that is close to the hearts of every Sarawakian”, Adenan promised to follow up the issue
Don’t mess with me.
‘ ’ Adenan Satem’s battlecry
after the passing of a special motion at the state assembly where both ruling and opposition parties unanimously agreed to increase
oil and gas royalty to 20 per cent.
Fighting grafts and illegal logging Adenan started his antigraft campaigns by working closely with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s (MACC) and inviting relevant establishments, from both public and private sectors to be committed to the same initiative. Before he extended the pledge to the public, he first agreed with MACC’s suggestion of MACC to bar his immediate family members from applying for state land or logging concessions by signing an Integrity Pledge himself. After setting his own example, on Nov 17, a total of 21 government agencies, timber licence holders and contractors were invited to sign the Corporate Integrity Pledge (CIP) towards eradicating corruption in the timber industry. The government agencies signing the pledge were State Forest Department, Sarawak Forestry Corporation Sdn Bhd, Sarawak Timber Industry
industry players, he also extended the warning to palm oil mill operators and palm oil plantation owners. Not only that, the Tanjung Datu assemblyman with the political will to clean up the industry is also planning to introduce new legislation at the next State Assembly sitting to seek heavier penalty on timber theft and smuggling, including imprisonment in view that under current law, the penalty only allowed for a RM200 compound for every tonne of timber seized and no imprisonment provided for. To combat illegal logging and smuggling of logs, he has 16 government enforcement agencies conducting a lab discussion on Log Verification System (a system that traces a log from its origin in the jungle until the point of export). To ensure the effectiveness of enforcement, the state government has approved an allocation of RM5.07 million to acquire 29 land cruisers, four caravans, 50 sets of firearms, uniforms
and helicopter rental for the aerial surveillance. For 2015, the state government has also approved an additional RM5.5 million in addition to the exiting annual allocation for the purpose of enforcement. On the Civil Service Day 2014 at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Nov 23, he openly called on civil servants to join him in fighting corruption, which he explained cost the government st year. community la se millions of ringgit in ne hi C e th h it r a dialogue w losses annually and ng at BCCK fo vi ri ar n na de rA the money could be Chief Ministe better spent delivering services to the people. “So don’t mess with me, I will get you with the commitment of MACC and other state authorities. You’ve got to be rough because some people cannot be persuaded. Do not mess with the government. I think that’s all I want to say. You got my message.”
Environmental protection To protect the environment, Adenan has announced that the state would not be approving any new timber licence or allow the setting up of any more new oil palm plantations. The freezing of licences on land clearing was made known on Nov 19 last year when he announced that the government would not issue any more new timber licence for areas such as permanent forest estate, forest reserve and state land forest but did not include the land under Occupation tickets (OT) which are permits for land clearing, under Licence for Planted Forest (LPF) or provisional lease for plantations (PL). A month down the road, terminated more than half of 155 OTs after reiterating his “no new timber licence” policy. “The review of the number of existing licence holders is timely with the objective to consolidate the logging industry so that it would be effectively regulated, monitored and controlled in order to mitigate any environmental degradation
as a result of this activity.” The state government has also stopped alienating state land for plantations to protect the forest from further destruction through opening of large oil palm plantations as large tracts of state forest had been cleared for oil palm estates apart from devastattion by legal and illegal logging activities. “We have enough of that already and we are not going to open up any more plantations. Besides, there will be no more new timber licences and on top of that, we will put a stop to illegal logging. “We are not going to allow any more new plantations, except on communal and NCR land,” he said in the statement when receiving a courtesy call from Kuching Division Journalists Association at his office in the State Legislative Assembly in Petra Jaya recently.
Chinese and Chinese schools When some politicians in Peninsular Malaysia stirred up issues about the Chinese being ‘pendatang’ (immigrants), Adenan stood
The review of the number of existing licence holders is timely with the objective to consolidate the logging industry so that it would be effectively regulated, monitored and controlled in order to mitigate any environmental degradation as a result of this activity.
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Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem, Chief Minister
up for the Chinese and called on the community not to label the Chinese as immigrants as they have been around for many generations. “I wish to convey to the Chinese community that you’re here for hundreds of years for four to five generations. So don’t call the Chinese ‘pendatang’, not good. You’re Malaysian citizens and ‘anak Sarawak’. Maybe during your great grandparents’ time, yes but not now after four or five generations.” At the same dialogue with the Chinese Community held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Jun 26, 2014, he said no one could call the Chinese immigrants because ‘Malaysia or
Sarawak is big enough for everyone’. Understanding that education is always close to the hearts of the Chinese, Adenan announced an allocation of RM3 million for 14 Chinese private schools in Sarawak when he visited Chung Hua Middle School No 1, Kuching last October. In the same visit, he termed the call by some quarters to close down Chinese schools as ‘stupid talk’ as he believed these private Chinese schools also took in children of other races. He further assured that although education is under the federal government, the state would continue to provide aid for the schools before promising to the Sarawak Federation
of Chinese Independent Schools Management Board that RM3 million was just the beginning — and more will be coming.
Championing Sarawak’s needs Within a year of taking office as the state’s chief executive, he has served the people and proven that he is a true ‘son of Sarawak’ His initiatives so far have championed the hopes and aspirations of the common folk. His state reforms and no-nonsense approach have helped garner more support for BN. Even the Opposition has praised him for changes in the state. Some political pundits even foresee that the coming state election will be tough agenda for the opposition, as Adenan, almost as always in one fell swoop, has banished the issues they might exploit. After seeing the winds of change he has whipped up in the past year, there is no shadow of doubt in the minds of Sarawakians that Adenan Satem is what he himself envisions to be — a Chief Minister for All.
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Adenan’s First Year In Office
Saturday, February 28, 2015
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Adenan’s First Year In Office
Saturday, February 28, 2015